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Hi guys! Today (July 16th, 2018) is National Disability Awareness Day.
Disabilities come in all shapes and sizes; they affect people in a multitude of ways, and can be invisible or obvious.
The most difficult thing that I faced when being labeled as ‘disabled’ was my perception of my self and my ability. I had spent a great deal of my youth with large aspirations and goals, and believed I was capable of achieving them- however being told that I was unable to do certain things convinced me, I was truly incapable of “normalcy”. Now, in recovery, I am beginning to see myself in another light, I’m making friends with myself and the person I want to be, and I feel closer to happiness than I have in years. I’m grateful for the gift of self-reflection and the strength and will to change. And without the years I spent believing I was “less-than”, I would not have the incredible sense of empathy that I am so grateful to be able to use in my life.
If you or someone you love lives with a disability- today is your day. Recognize the strength you posses, congratulate yourself for the strides you make, and know you are capable and worthy of anything and everything.
What is the most difficult part of having a disability? What are you grateful? Has your disability given you any gifts?
TurningPointCT.org was developed by young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues. We know what it’s like to feel alone, stressed, worried, sad, and angry. We’ve lived through the ups and downs of self-harm, drugs and alcohol, and the struggle to find help.
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Thanks so much for sharing this Eliza, I never even knew this existed! I can definitely relate to what you spoke about not feeling like you could strive to do the things you wanted to achieve once you were “labeled” or told you had a disability, etc., because I feel that is the reason I was stuck for so long. I don’t think the mental health system is designed in a way to help those who receive diagnosis understand that recovery is attainable and that we don’t have to remain in the same vicious downwards cycle forever. I am glad you are now able to say that recovery is possible, and although some days may still get hard here and there, it will always still be worth the fight! 🙂
Luz, I totally agree. I think that “disabling” people is one of the most dangerous thing the mental health system can do. Not only does it create a financial and vocational “trap” thats so so difficult to get out of- and scary! But it also dangerously and drastically changes the ways people perceive themselves and their ability.
You guys are so right.